Abakaliki, – The Press Secretary to the wife of Ebonyi State Governor, Nnenna Oshibe, delivered a powerful press release on behalf of the First Lady, Chief Mrs. Mary-Maudline Uzoamaka Ogbonna Nwifuru, during a walk organized by the State Government in collaboration with the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP). The event took place in Abakaliki as part of the activities lined up to commemorate the 2023 World Day Against Trafficking in Persons, which carried the theme “Reach every victim of Trafficking, Leave no one behind.”
In her speech, Chief Mrs. Nwifuru emphasized that poverty and greed were the root causes of child trafficking, urging parents to take advantage of Governor Nwifuru’s initiative of providing free primary and secondary education. She emphasized the importance of sending children to school, as it could protect them from falling prey to traffickers and ensure they live a life free from fear and exploitation. By investing in education, parents can safeguard their children’s dreams and hopes, protecting them from being robbed of a bright future.
Chief Mrs. Nwifuru expressed joy and gratitude that the people of Ebonyi state had united in her avowed determination to put an end to child trafficking, forced marriages, and all other forms of child abuse. She stressed the need to combat organ trafficking, maltreatment, and molestation of children, highlighting the vulnerability of young lives being exploited for unimaginable activities, often without anyone to turn to for help due to their distance from home.
The event saw the participation of Barr Sam Offia, the South-East Zonal Commander of NAPTIP, and Mrs. Bertha Offor, the Ebonyi State Commander of NAPTIP. Both representatives commended Chief Mrs. Nwifuru and the people of Ebonyi State for their unwavering support in advocating against human trafficking. They pledged their unyielding support to the state government in its efforts to combat all forms of human trafficking and child abuse.
With the theme “Reach every victim of Trafficking, Leave no one behind,” the 2023 World Day Against Trafficking in Persons serves as a poignant reminder of the need for collective action to protect the rights and dignity of vulnerable individuals. Chief Mrs. Nwifuru’s call to prioritize education and address the underlying issues of poverty and greed sheds light on the importance of long-term solutions in combating this heinous crime.
As the fight against human trafficking continues, it is imperative for communities, governments, and organizations to join hands in safeguarding the welfare of children and vulnerable individuals. By working together, Ebonyi State and the entire nation can create a future where every child can grow and thrive in a safe and nurturing environment, free from the shadows of exploitation and fear.
